Wellbeing in brass bands : the benefits and challenges of group music making

The wellbeing impacts of group music making have been established by evidence-based research. However, studies have largely focused on one group music activity; singing in choirs. To what extent can these wellbeing impacts be considered representative of group music making? This paper presents a survey of wellbeing impacts in brass band players. A wellbeing survey was designed to obtain qualitative information as well as quantitative data for computing descriptive statistics regarding both positive and negative impacts of group music making on wellbeing. The survey was distributed via Brass Bands England and 346 adult brass band players reported self-perceived wellbeing impacts across 5 categories; physical, psychological, social, emotional and spiritual. Responses were analyzed through a descriptive statistical approach combined with an applied thematic analysis that identified the wellbeing impacts expressed by the performers, as well as their valence (positive vs. negative). Areas of overlap between choral practice and brass band work were identified, most notably in the categories of physical, psychological and social wellbeing; enhanced respiratory function and posture, reduced stress, improved general mental health, and regular social interaction. We also identified wellbeing themes that are less common in choral research, impacts relating to the brass bands’ physical demands, competitive tradition, community roles and cross-generational social structures. Based on findings, we created a visual model of group music making impacts across five wellbeing categories as a basis for future research. A wider appreciation of the relationships between group music making and wellbeing can be achieved by expanding the present research base to varied music ensembles and adapting the present model to emerging findings. Testing in this systematic way would enhance understanding of the general wellbeing impacts of group music making that might be accounted for by universal brain and body processes versus wellbeing impacts that may be unique to different ensemble types due to their particular performance styles, practice demands and traditions

Group singing-related technique workshops for people with inducible laryngeal obstruction: a feasibility study

Inducible laryngeal obstruction (ILO) is an upper-airway disorder involving a heightened sensitivity of the larynx, obstructing airflow and potentially leading to breathing difficulties. Speaking can trigger, and be affected by, ILO symptoms. This research explored the feasibility of singing-related workshops for people with ILO. The aim was to increase participants’ vocal confidence by combining relaxation with improved control, tone, and projection. Five participants consented to participate in the research. The workshops were led by a voice teacher (VT) and a speech and language therapist (SLT), focusing on posture, breathing techniques, and singing techniques. Ten weekly workshops took place online, with the final session being hybrid where most participants attended in person. Data collection included weekly response forms with Likert scales to rate speaking and singing confidence and feedback on the workshops; interviews with VT and SLT; workshop observations; and a participant reflection questionnaire following the program. Participants reported a significant improvement in speaking and singing confidence as the workshops progressed. Thematic analysis revealed four themes: improvements in confidence, specifically in speaking and singing; the value of social support and meeting others with the condition; specific techniques and approaches that were beneficial; and benefits and disadvantages of the online format. This research demonstrates the feasibility of group singing workshops for people with ILO who do not have a background in singing, using an online format. It confirms the potential benefits of using singing-related techniques for this condition, supporting confidence in speaking and singing. Further research would be useful to extend the findings from this initial project and to provide a firm basis for introducing further programs using singing-related techniques for people with a range of upper-airway disorders. Future developments could include introducing these techniques in clinical settings and using them alongside (or as part of) speech and language therapy